Odang
July 31 – August 12, 2022
Opening
July 31, Sunday | 2 PM
Secret Fresh Gallery
Ronac Art Center, Ortigas Ave, 1502 San Juan, Philippines
The human mind is enormously complex. Just as how brains process what is visually perceived to construct a reality, the mind also filters the facts encountered to conveniently fit one’s personal views. Facts are data points which, ideally, lead to larger truths. Yet there are countless forces repressing it especially now, including information overload. Oftentimes this newly expressed truth is no longer filtered through what is culturally or morally sound.
Odang’s “Fraud Reality” explores the effects of the human filter on the framework of truth and morality. The works in the exhibit refer to a perceived structure of facts, or lack thereof, that currently divides the society in this age of information. Truth, the ever elusive and abstract element, is exposed and suspended for all to consume. Through his art practice, Odang suggests curiosity over denialism and simple answers.
The exhibition’s theme is transpired with the daily echo of the country’s current volatile state as backdrop. “Fraud Reality” is the antithesis of putting things in context; it is comical with a form of humor that stings. Whether the images incite amusement or disgust, Odang proposes an opportunity to challenge concepts behind the judgments, conclusions, and stereotypes — and hopefully propose an alternative perspective to the audience.
The sheer madness of Odang’s characters represent, and more often dispute, the various models of fraud in today’s belief system. The artist presents his participatory vision as part playful, part profound, and entirely haunting. “Fraud Reality” conjures a creative space in which one can confront this collective social confusion. Perhaps the most confusing part of all is the conscious and subconscious acceptance of deception– embraced, celebrated, and hell, even elected for office.
Text by Grace Ng
